A huge thank you to all who attended St. Francis Day and Blessing of the Animals!

For more information, contact us at sfaec@comcast.net 
or (423) 238-7708.

What a beautiful and fun day we have at Blessing of the Animals every year on the first Sunday of October.  The community joins us as we celebrate St. Francis of Assisi and our four-legged friends.  There is no charge -- it is our gift to the community.  We hope to see you there!  (Click here or on the photo below to see the highlights of our event.)

"Most high, omnipotent good Lord, grant your people grace to renounce gladly the vanities of this world; that, following the way of blessed Francis, we may for love of you delight in your whole creation with perfectness of joy.  O God, you have made us and all living things. You are even more wonderful than what you have made. We thank you for giving us these pets who bring us joy.  As you take care of us, so also we ask your help that we might take care of those who trust us to look after them. By doing this, we share in your own love for all creation.  We ask this in Jesus' name.  Amen."

More on St. Francis Day

and the Annual Blessing of Animals

On the first Sunday of October each year, the campus of St. Francis of Assisi is always filled with some of nature's most wonderful creations - our four-legged friends - as they participate in The Annual Blessing of Animals. The day begins with a pet parade around the campus followed by a short liturgy in the Episcopal tradition to celebrate creation; including a blessing of all living things. A petting zoo and pony rides are available for the young and young-at-heart. How long has it been since you pet a lama? A duck?

The festival site includes all things 'animal' - including vendors who offer pet sitting services, animal day care and boarding facilities, and even a veterinarian on site to answer questions. Are you looking for a new four-legged best friend? Some of the area's top placement and adoption facilities bring adoptable pets that are looking for new homes.

For more information, contact us at (423) 238-7708 or sfaec@comcast.net. Hope to see you there!